Things To Do
in Wawarsing
Wawarsing is a town located in Ulster County, New York, United States. It is known for its picturesque natural beauty, with abundant hiking trails and scenic views of the Shawangunk Ridge. The town is also home to the historic Ellenville Downtown Historic District, which features well-preserved architecture from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Wawarsing offers a peaceful rural setting, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet retreat.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $12 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in Minnewaska State Park, where the stunning views await you. Enjoy the crisp air and the vibrant colors of nature as you navigate the scenic trails.
Pack a picnic to enjoy by Lake Minnewaska, surrounded by natural beauty. After lunch, take a swim or relax on the shore while soaking up the sun.
Head back to Wawarsing and unwind at a local café for some delicious dessert. Take a leisurely stroll around town to appreciate the peaceful ambiance.
Rent a bike and explore the picturesque trails around Wawarsing. The early morning sun makes for perfect cycling weather as you pedal through beautiful landscapes.
Stop for lunch at a local deli to fuel up before continuing your ride. Discover hidden gems along the bike paths, like charming art installations and scenic viewpoints.
Return your bike and treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a nearby restaurant. Consider catching a live show or local performance to round off your adventurous day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Small-town charm with a close-knit community.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities like hiking, fishing, and camping.
- Affordable living costs compared to urban areas.
- Rich history and cultural heritage.
- Limited job opportunities and economic growth.
- Fewer amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Less public transportation options.
- Potential isolation for those seeking a more vibrant, urban lifestyle.
- Harsh winters might not be appealing to everyone.
Best Activities in Wawarsing
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking views and diverse trails in Minnewaska State Park Preserve, featuring waterfalls, cliffs, and serene lake views.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride on the extensive rail trails that wind through the beautiful landscapes of Wawarsing and surrounding areas.
Experience fishing in the Rondout Reservoir, which is known for its excellent angling opportunities and picturesque scenery.
Set up camp at Sam's Point, where you can enjoy hiking, exploring geological formations, and stunning views of the Shawangunk Ridge.
Take part in rock climbing or simply hike the trails in the Shawangunk Mountain Range, famous for its unique geological features and climbing routes.
Engage in bird watching in this diverse habitat home to various species, with trails and observation points for optimal viewing.
Paddle along the Neversink River, known for its beautiful waters and wildlife, providing a perfect setting for kayaking and canoeing.
Tours
Uncover the best of Wawarsing with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Wawarsing
Visit one of these nice places.
This park offers stunning views of the Shawangunk Ridge, waterfalls, and numerous hiking trails that lead to breathtaking vistas perfect for photography.
Known for its panoramic views from high cliffs, this location features unique landscapes, including rare dwarf pitch pine trees and various scenic overlooks that are great for capturing the natural beauty of the area.
Hiking along this trail provides multiple vantage points of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it ideal for photographers seeking diverse shots in one trek.
This local park offers peaceful surroundings and open spaces, perfect for sunset photography or capturing family-friendly moments against a backdrop of greenery.
The scenic river provides beautiful landscapes, especially during fall when the foliage changes color, making it an excellent spot for nature photographers.
Visitors can enjoy dramatic cliff views and landscapes that are especially stunning at sunrise or sunset, offering unique photo opportunities.
Food in Wawarsing
Wawarsing Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in the classic Upstate New York treat of freshly made apple cider donuts at DuBois Farms or Kelder's Farm.
Must-Try!
Delight in the delicious artisanal cheeses produced by local farms in the Hudson Valley region. Visit farms like Vulto Creamery to savor these delightful cheese varieties.
Experience the authentic flavors of Jewish cuisine with a comforting bowl of Matzo Ball Soup from local delis such as Main Street Bistro.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Wawarsing better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Kingston Farmers Market, just a short drive from Wawarsing, for a diverse array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable street food offerings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Take the time to learn about the local customs and traditions in Wawarsing. Engaging with community events and local festivals can provide insight into the values and practices of the residents.
Be mindful of personal space when interacting with others. People in the Wawarsing area may have different comfort levels, so it’s important to maintain a respectful distance during conversations.
Use basic polite expressions such as 'please,' 'thank you,' and greet people appropriately. Being courteous in everyday interactions fosters goodwill and respect among community members.
Safety
Tipping in Wawarsing
Ensure a smooth experience
In Wawarsing, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is commonly practiced in the service industry. Patrons in restaurants generally tip waitstaff around 15-20% of the total bill before tax. Tipping is also customary for other services such as taxi drivers, hairdressers, and hotel staff. The amount may vary based on the quality of service received, and some establishments may include a service charge for large parties.
Payment practices in Wawarsing typically involve a variety of methods including cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Many businesses also accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Local shops and restaurants may encourage cash payments to avoid credit card processing fees. In recent years, contactless payment methods have become increasingly popular, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, as more consumers prefer hygienic options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Wawarsing (March to May) is mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-70s Fahrenheit. Expect blooming flowers and beautiful scenery in the surrounding nature. This is a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.
Summer (June to August) brings warm temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit. This season is bustling with outdoor events and activities such as festivals, hiking, and water sports in nearby lakes. However, occasional thunderstorms can occur.
Fall (September to November) showcases stunning foliage as leaves change color, making it an ideal time for photography and viewing fall colors. Temperatures range from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit. It's also the harvesting season for local farms, offering various seasonal produce and festivals.
Winter (December to February) in Wawarsing can be quite cold, with temperatures often hovering between the mid-20s to mid-40s Fahrenheit. Expect snow and opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing. The festive season brings beautiful decorations and local holiday events.
Wawarsing at Night
Hiking in Wawarsing
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve features stunning views, waterfalls, and various hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Sam's Point Preserve offers a unique hiking experience with panoramic vistas, rare flora, and picturesque ice caves, located in the Shawangunk Mountains.
The Mohonk Preserve has an extensive network of trails that traverse beautiful landscapes, including cliffs, forests, and meadows, ideal for hikers of all levels.
Catskill Park features numerous trails that lead to breathtaking views, waterfalls, and swimming holes, perfect for day hikes and outdoor adventures.
Bashakill Wildlife Management Area offers a scenic hiking experience along the Bashakill River with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying nature.
Aiports
How to reach Wawarsing by plane.
Located approximately 75 miles southeast of Wawarsing, EWR is one of the major international airports serving the New York metropolitan area.
About 90 miles southeast of Wawarsing, JFK is one of the busiest international airports in the U.S. and offers flights to numerous worldwide destinations.
Situated approximately 85 miles southeast of Wawarsing, LGA primarily handles domestic flights but also has some international flights.
Located about 30 miles south of Wawarsing, SWF serves as a smaller airport with some international services.
Approximately 110 miles southwest of Wawarsing, PHL is a major airport offering extensive international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Wawarsing, predominantly consisting of individuals of European descent.
This group includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, making up a significant portion of the population.
A community of individuals with African ancestry, representing a notable demographic in Wawarsing.
This group consists of individuals from Asian backgrounds, including East Asian, South Asian, and Southeast Asian populations.
Includes individuals who identify as Native American or Alaska Native, representing a smaller percentage of the population.
This category includes individuals who identify with more than one racial group, reflecting a multicultural population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played on a court where two teams compete to score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team's hoop.
A widely played sport where two teams of eleven players aim to score goals by kicking a ball into the opposing team's net.
An iconic American pastime involving two teams who take turns batting and fielding, aiming to score runs by hitting a ball and circling bases.
A popular individual sport and fitness activity in the area, often practiced in local parks and during community races.
A variant of baseball often played by women and co-ed teams, featuring a larger ball and a smaller field.
A fast-paced sport played on ice, popular in colder regions, where teams compete to score by hitting a puck into the opposing goal.
A team sport where players hit a ball over a net with the objective of landing it in the opposing team's court.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wawarsing.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Wawarsing boasts several eateries, such as Aroma Thyme Bistro and Gaby's Cafe, which cater to vegetarians and vegans with their dedicated plant-based menu items.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy gluten-free dishes at eateries like Aroma Thyme Bistro, where the menu features thoughtfully crafted gluten-free selections.